I.S.S. Movie Review: A Cosmic Misfire in the Vastness of Space
Embark on a journey beyond the stars with “I.S.S.,” a sci-fi thriller hitting theaters on Jan. 19. However, despite the promising backdrop of the International Space Station (I.S.S.), the film fails to launch into a gripping narrative, leaving audiences with a lackluster experience. Join us as we delve into the clichéd and illogical motions of this pedestrian thriller and explore why “I.S.S.” struggles to generate suspense, despite the stellar performance of Oscar-winning actress Ariana DeBose.
“I.S.S.” unfolds aboard the International Space Station, a symbol of post-Cold War collaboration between the United States and Russia. The narrative follows astronauts Kira (Ariana DeBose) and Christian (John Gallagher Jr.) as they embark on a mission, only to find themselves entangled in a tense stand-off with their Russian counterparts. As the story unfolds, intrigue and murder take center stage, yet the film’s execution lacks the excitement promised by its cosmic setting.
The film introduces a cast of characters with paper-thin depth, failing to make the protagonist, Kira, a likable figure. Despite the potential for a claustrophobic, kill-or-be-killed scenario, the dilemmas faced by the crew are mundane and familiar. As the power goes out and the station’s systems fail, the urgency to fix a broken antenna sets off a series of events that feel hastily sketched and devoid of originality. “I.S.S.” promises a gripping narrative but delivers scheming that goes from wan to ludicrous at light speed. While some characters reveal themselves as untrustworthy, others behave inexplicably, practically courting misfortune. The film’s attempt to categorize characters as “good” or “bad” falls flat, leading to contradictions in the narrative. The tension within the I.S.S. grows, but the stakes feel secondary, failing to justify the film’s dramatic outlook.
Director Gabriela Cowperthwaite brings a realistic portrayal of outer space to life, with twirling cameras navigating zero-gravity corridors and CGI presenting the I.S.S. in Earth’s orbit. However, the film falls short of utilizing the cosmic backdrop to its full potential. The revelation of a cure for radiation sickness amid a nuclear war feels conveniently placed, lacking the depth needed to engage audiences. Despite a touch of The Twilight Zone energy, “I.S.S.” squanders its potential, opting for grimaces, screams, and covert looks over a compelling narrative. The film’s conclusion leaves audiences deflated and perplexed, struggling to find a reason to care about the characters or the impending doom of the I.S.S.
“I.S.S.” may promise a thrilling space odyssey, but its execution falls short, resulting in a cosmic misfire. The film’s pedestrian narrative, thin characters, and lack of suspense leave audiences yearning for more. While the cosmic realism adds a touch of authenticity, the missed opportunities and deflating finale make “I.S.S.” a forgettable venture into the vastness of space.
